Commissioners Aren’t Robots — So Why Do We Write Like They Are?
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Ever read a tender response that sounded like it was written by a compliance robot? You know the ones: “We are committed to providing person-centred care through the implementation of robust policies and procedures...” It’s technically correct — and completely forgettable.
Commissioners aren’t robots. They’re people. People who’ve dedicated their careers to improving lives. If your response doesn’t sound like people wrote it, you’re missing the opportunity to connect.
🤖 What Robotic Writing Looks Like
- Endless jargon: “Outcomes-focused, person-centred, strengths-based...” with no real-world detail.
- Generic templates: Copy-pasted wording that could apply to any provider, anywhere.
- Passive voice: “Support is provided” instead of “Our team supports…”
These habits creep in when you focus too much on sounding ‘formal’ and forget to sound real.
💬 How to Write Like a Human
- Use clear, direct language. Say what you do, how you do it, and why it matters — simply and confidently.
- Write like you talk. If you wouldn’t say it in conversation, don’t put it in your tender.
- Put people first. Instead of leading with processes, lead with the experience of the person receiving care.
🎯 Why This Wins Tenders
Commissioners are looking for more than technical compliance. They want to feel confident that your team cares, listens, adapts, and delivers. When you write like a human, you show culture, not just competence.
Human writing builds trust — and trust is what gets you points.
✅ Test Your Writing
After drafting a response, ask yourself:
- Would I say this out loud in a meeting?
- Would my team recognise themselves in this?
- Would a commissioner feel reassured or alienated reading this?
If the answer isn’t a confident yes, rewrite it. It’s worth the effort.
Written by Mike Harrison, Founder of Impact Guru Ltd — specialists in bid writing and strategy for social care providers
Visit impact-guru.co.uk to browse downloadable strategies, method statements, or get in touch about tender support.